Category: Goan Festivals

Goan Festivals

Chikhal Kalo 2025 Kicks Off with a Celebration of Goa’s Culture, Devotion, and Culinary Heritage

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Marcel, 5th July 2025 – The Department of Tourism, inaugurated the vibrant and deeply revered Chikhal Kalo 2025 on 5th July at the historic Shri Devki Krishna Temple, Marcela, marking the beginning of a three-day celebration dedicated to Goa’s timeless spiritual and cultural traditions. The festival was officially inaugurated in the presence of esteemed dignitaries including Shri Govind Gaude, MLA Priol constituency; Shri Kedar Naik, Director Tourism; and Shri Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director, GTDC; Tabla Maestro, Shri Tulsidas Navelkar; Chairman of Shri Devki Krishna Saunsthan committee, Shri Vijay Dharwatkar along with Secretary of Shri Devki Krishna Saunsthan committee Shri Venkatesh Tamba and others.

Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism stated “Chikhal Kalo is a reaffirmation of who we are as Goans. It is through festivals like these that we honour our spiritual roots, promote community bonding, and create authentic experiences for visitors. Goa is about the spirit of its people, its culture, its values. Through this festival, we continue our commitment to Regenerative Tourism by bringing the spotlight to our traditions, our hinterlands, and our identity. Chikhal Kalo is a reminder that tourism can be both transformative and rooted.”

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added “Chikhal Kalo is a testimony to the growing desire among locals and travellers alike to reconnect with traditions that are immersive, inclusive, and meaningful. We are proud to promote such festivals under the broader vision of ‘Goa Beyond Beaches.’ We will continue to encourage experiences that are environmentally responsible, culturally sensitive, and community-driven. The festival also complements our ongoing monsoon campaign, #GlowOnArrival, which showcases Goa’s tranquil beauty and soulful offerings during the rains.”

Held on the auspicious Dashami Tithi, the first day of festivities was packed with diverse cultural and devotional experiences that reflected the essence of Bhakti, tradition, and local creativity. The celebrations began with a Cooking Competition, where participants showcased an array of traditional Goan vegetarian dishes, celebrating Goa’s rich culinary heritage and its seasonal, community-based food traditions.

This was followed by “Nachu Kirtanache Rangi”, a beautiful performance that brought together devotional Kirtan recital and music to set a spiritually vibrant tone for the evening. The Vitthalvaari segment featured heartfelt Bhakti performances by acclaimed artists including Mugdha Gaonkar, Hrishikesh Sane accompanied by Aany Ghate, Utpal Sainker, Kedar Dhamaskar, and Govind Gauthankar.

The evening culminated in a soul-stirring Abhang and Bhakti Sangeet performance by renowned artist Dr. Bharat Balvalli, accompanied by a distinguished ensemble: Pandit Makrand Kundale, Prasad Karambelkar, Amar Oak, Dada Parab, and Govind Bhagat. The spiritual energy and musical brilliance enthralled attendees, uniting tourists and devotees in a shared experience of Goa’s living heritage.

The next two days of Chikhal Kalo 2025 promise to be equally engaging and spiritually uplifting. On 6th July, Ashadhi Ekadashi, the temple premises will resonate with the divine melodies of a traditional Bhajan recital, inviting all devotees and tourists to immerse themselves in sacred music and prayer. On 7th July, the final day of the festival, the much-anticipated Chikhal Kalo ritual will unfold—a joyful and symbolic mud festival that reimagines the playful moments of Lord Krishna’s childhood. This ritual, rooted deeply in community bonding and devotion, witnesses both locals and visitors coming together to celebrate Goa’s unique cultural identity with fervour and joy.

Shri Deepak Narvekar, Dy. General Manager, GTDC, proposed the vote of thanks.

The Department of Tourism warmly invites everyone to witness and partake in the remaining days of this rare and meaningful celebration. As Goa continues to promote tourism that is regenerative, inclusive, and rooted in tradition, Chikhal Kalo stands as a glowing example of how festivals can become a movement of cultural revival and collective pride.

Entry on all days is free.

Goan Festivals

Traditional São João 2025 celebrations in Siolim, held in association with Goa Tourism

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Siolim, June 24, 2025 – The Siolim São João Festival 2025 was celebrated with great enthusiasm and cultural pride, reaffirming its position as one of Goa’s most treasured traditional festivals. Organised by the Siolim Boat Festival Committee in association with the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, the event brought together dignitaries, local residents, and visitors in a vibrant celebration of heritage, community spirit, and creativity.

The festival began with the opening performance by Shri Johnny B Gud, accompanied by Reza, bringing energy to the stage with a spirited rendition of the São João anthem. This performance set the tone for an afternoon steeped in tradition and festive fervour. As the decorated boats made their way along the river, the arrival of the first float marked the ceremonial beginning of the day’s procession. Among the key highlights was a specially curated float presented by Goa Tourism, which featured the Siolim Committee President, a couple in traditional attire, and two young children—symbolising the inclusivity and generational continuity of Goan culture.

The festival was graced by the presence of Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte; MLA Siolim constituency Smt. Delilah Lobo; MLA, Calangute Constituency, Shri Michael Lobo; Managing Director, GTDC, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar , Parish Priest Siolim church Fr. Succor Mendes , Silvester Fernandes president of siolim Sao Joao committee and other officials from Goa Tourism.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism Shri Rohan A. Khaunte stated, “Coming to Siolim and celebrating São João alongside the committee has been a meaningful beginning. Our Goenkarponn lives in our villages, and it is this rich cultural heritage and tourism potential that we must highlight to truly represent Goa. When we speak of ‘Goa Beyond Beaches,’ it is essential to showcase cultural tourism and traditional festivals like São João, Carnival, and Chikhal Kalo, which play a significant role in preserving Goa’s history, traditions, and identity. The traditional São João festival will continue to be celebrated in Siolim, and I am pleased to announce that it will remain rooted here in the years to come.”

As a mark of welcome and respect, the dignitaries were felicitated with traditional kopels (floral crowns). A symbolic countdown followed, where the Tourism Minister and MLA Calangute constituency jointly triggered the formal commencement of the celebrations, drawing applause and cheer from the gathered crowd.

Also addressing the gathering was Smt Delilah Lobo, MLA of Siolim Constituency, who expressed her gratitude to the Tourism Minister for his support in making the event a success.

The cultural segment of the program featured a wide array of performances. A themed dance presentation by Goa Tourism celebrated the traditions of São João through expressive choreography. This was followed by a powerful musical act by The Clay Jars. The entertainment continued with traditional folk dances, fusion acts blending modern and classical forms, and spirited musical performances by artists BBC and Rosario, who kept the festive spirit alive well into the evening.

A large number of foreign nationals also joined in the festival celebrations in Siolim.

Adding further vibrancy to the event were the beautifully presented traditional boats that continued to arrive throughout the evening. Each showcased the creativity and collaborative spirit of the participating groups, captivating the audience with their design and symbolism.

As part of the evening’s acknowledgements, the organising committee felicitated individuals who have made noteworthy contributions to the community. These included Dr. Sachin, Dr. Noel, and Albert along with his daughter. Their dedication and service were recognised in a gesture of appreciation and gratitude from the community.

The Virtual Kopel Making Contest, earlier held by the Department of Tourism, brought a creative digital touch to the celebrations. During the Siolim São João Festival 2025, the winners of the contest were announced and felicitated, with Nicole Liza Fernandes awarded the 1st Prize, Mariola Mendes receiving the 2nd Prize, and Elton Dylan D’silva securing the 3rd Prize.

In addition to the performances and presentations, the festival included contests such as the Best Kopel Competition, held across both junior and senior categories. Several spot prizes were distributed throughout the program, adding an element of surprise and delight for the audience.

The festivities concluded with the presentation of mementos and the much-awaited announcement of the winning boats. The cheers and applause that followed were a fitting end to an event that had, throughout the day, showcased the unique character and festive spirit of Siolim. The Siolim São João Festival 2025 highlighted Goa’s rich cultural fabric, its strong community values, and the growing importance of integrating heritage with tourism.

Goan Festivals

Goa Heritage Festival 2025: A Celebration of Rich Cultural Legacy

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The Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, is set to host the highly anticipated Goa Heritage Festival in the picturesque village of Saligao from May 9th to 11th, 2025. This three-day extravaganza promises to be a spectacular showcase of Goa’s rich cultural heritage, featuring a vibrant blend of traditional music, folk dances, fashion, and live performances.


The festival will commence on Friday, May 9th, with an evening of traditional Goan music, followed by an inauguration and felicitation ceremony. The Kanta Gaude Troupe will mesmerize the audience with their performances of the Lamp Dance and Dekhni, a traditional Goan folk dance. A fashion show by Verma Dmello will highlight the unique styles and designs inspired by Goan culture, culminating in a live musical performance by Sidhannath Buyao & Band.


On Saturday, May 10th, the celebration will continue with Goan music and diverse folk performances by the Kanta Gaude Troupe, including the Goff and Veerbhadra dance forms. The evening will witness a lively performance by RAGA – The Band, followed by felicitation and a soulful set by renowned Goan singer Sonia Sirsat & Band.


The final day, Sunday, May 11th, will feature the Kanta Gaude Troupe showcasing the Jagor and Corridinho, a Portuguese-influenced folk dance. The night will conclude with energetic performances by RASM Band and Black Sapphire Band, leaving the audience with unforgettable memories.


The Goa Heritage Festival is a significant step towards preserving and promoting Goa’s intangible cultural heritage. By providing a platform for local self-help groups and showcasing Goan culture, the festival aims to create deeper awareness of Goa’s cultural identity and support regenerative tourism that uplifts the local community and boosts the economy.


The Department of Tourism invites everyone to be part of this immersive cultural journey in Saligao. Join us for an unforgettable experience of Goan music, dance, fashion, and more!

Key Highlights:

  • Dates: May 9th to 11th, 2025
  • Venue: Saligao
  • Performances: Traditional Goan music, folk dances, fashion show, live music
  • Participating artists: Kanta Gaude Troupe, Sidhannath Buyao & Band, RAGA – The Band, Sonia Sirsat & Band, RASM Band, Black Sapphire Band
  • Objective: Preserving and promoting Goa’s intangible cultural heritage

Come and experience the vibrant culture of Goa at the Goa Heritage Festival 2025!

Goan Festivals

Muddasachem Fest Celebrates Community, Culture and Workers’ Spirit in Valpoi

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Valpoi, Goa – 1 May 2025 –On the occasion of International Workers’ Day, the serene Laudato Si’ Farm in Valpoi, Sattari, Goa, came alive with the vibrant energy of Muddasachem Fest – a celebration of local culture, community bonds, and the enduring contributions of workers.

The event, held from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, was hosted by Fr. Santana Gama, Fr. Felix Lobo and the people of Valpoi, with curation by noted festakar Marius Fernandes, known for his community-driven approach to cultural celebrations.

The fest was declared open after the traditional lighting of the lamp by dignitaries Harold Andrade, Ms. Khan, Carmelito Andrade, Fr. Santana Gama, Fr. Felix lobo, Mr and Mrs Philip Dionisio and Festakar Marius Fernandes This was followed by a felicitation ceremony where Festakar Marius presented a shawl to Fr. Santana Gama and Festakar Marius was honoured by the host with a shawl.

Muddasachem Fest began with the Festakarachi Pasoi – a heritage walk around the lush venue, offering participants a moment of reflection and connection with nature. This was followed by Kottieacho Nach choreographed by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas, setting the tone for an afternoon rich in local flavor.

A hands-on cashew bhakri workshop brought culinary heritage to the fore, a forgotten dish of Goa, conducted by Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas with resident Lucreda Dionisio and a Khotkhotem workshop by Philip Dionisio, these brought back memories and nostalgia to the elders.

The students from Our Lady of Lourdes School, Valpoi, delivered captivating dance performances like the fugdi dance, Ghavti mitt dance that energized the gathering. School students also performed a dance on dekhni.

Designer Harold Andrade showcased his Kunbi collections through a fashion show with models Dr. Gwendolyn de Ornelas, Dominic D’souza and Marlene Henriques. A great initiative by the young designer Harold to bring back the kunbi attire in our lives.

Bolcãocheo Gozalli between Professor Carmelito Andrade and hosts Fr. Santana Gama and Fr. Felix Lobo discussing on how they a fest in the village can bring communities together.

The highlight of the festival was cutting of the Birthday cake for our beloved Ghumot by ex-principal of The Goa College of Arts, Mr Willy Goes and encouraging people to buy ghumots and save the potter while Festakar stressed on his famous slogan “Taking the Ghumot to the world”.

The villagers had live roasting of cashew nuts, saltfish, Philip Dionisio had a demo on the correct method of cutting the jackfruit, preparing the semi raw jackfruit traditional way on the chul.

The event closed with Balcaoacheo Gozalli – a thought-provoking conversation between Dr. Ornelas and local resident Francis Soares, highlighting stories of community and resilience.

More than just a festival, Muddasachem Fest was a reminder of the power of people coming together – to share, celebrate and strengthen the threads that binds them.

Goan Festivals

Spirit of Goa Festival Cancelled on 3rd & 4th May 2025

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Colva, 3rd May 2025 – The Department of Tourism, announces the cancellation of The Spirit of Goa Festival scheduled for 3rd and 4th May 2025 at the SAG Grounds, Colva. This decision was taken in light of the tragic incident at the Lairai Zatra in Shirgao, where a stampede occurred, leading to loss of lives and injuries.

The Department prioritizes the safety, well-being, and sentiments of the people of Goa during this difficult time and expresses its deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.